Testicular Cancer Screening
Topic Overview
Testicular cancer is not common. It is
often first discovered by the man himself, or his sex partner, as a lump or an
enlarged and swollen testicle. In the early stages of testicular cancer, the
lump, which may be about the size of a pea, usually is not painful. Testicular
cancer found early and treated quickly has a very high cure rate.
Experts have different recommendations for screening for
testicular cancer. For example, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force advises against routine testicular exam or testicular self-exams in
teens and men who have no symptoms.1
A genital exam is an important part of a
routine physical exam for every adolescent boy and man.
Testicular self-examination (TSE) may
detect testicular cancer at an early stage. Many doctors do not believe that monthly TSE is
needed for men who are at average risk for testicular cancer.
Monthly TSE may be recommended for men who are at high risk for
testicular cancer. This includes men with a history of an undescended testicle
or a family or personal history of testicular cancer.
For more
information, see the topic Testicular Cancer.
References
Citations
- Lin K, Sharangpani R (2010). Screening for testicular cancer: An evidence review for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Annals of Internal Medicine, 153(6): 396–400.
Credits
| By | Healthwise Staff |
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| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
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| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology, Oncology |
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| Last Revised | June 27, 2012 |
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Last Revised:
June 27, 2012
Lin K, Sharangpani R (2010). Screening for testicular cancer: An evidence review for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Annals of Internal Medicine, 153(6): 396–400.
